Putin Commends National Solidarity and Military Resolve in Defiant Year-End Address

In his New Year's address, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the unity of Russian society and the country's armed forces amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The address, which was shorter than the previous year's and delivered against a snowy Kremlin backdrop, emphasized Russia's resilience and the support of the people for the military. Putin's speech comes after a deadly shelling in Belgorod and amid toned-down New Year's celebrations across Russia. Despite the war, analysts describe 2023 as a positive year for Putin, highlighting his political stability and the anticipation that Western support for Ukraine may wane. Putin is expected to win the upcoming March presidential election, with the potential to remain in power until 2036 due to constitutional reforms.